Just like we honor Black History Month, Women’s History Month, and LGBTQ+ Pride Month, Hispanic Heritage Month is a celebration of our shared humanity. While these commemorations may seem separate at first glance, at their core they all celebrate the same thing: the richness of our diversity and the beauty of our differences. Each of us comes from a unique background that deserves respect and recognition. It is through those differences that we become who we are, and every contribution —no matter how big or small— adds to the story of our society.
Like the other celebrations mentioned, Hispanic Heritage Month deserves the respect that its legacy carries. It doesn’t take much more than a bit of curiosity and an open mind to join in. Fortunately, here in Whitewater —and especially on the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater campus— we are part of a diverse environment that offers many opportunities to celebrate this important month.
Every year, the Department of Languages and Cultures, along with student organizations such as Latinos Unidos and the Spanish Club —both of which are Latino-oriented but not exclusive— organize events that are open and welcoming to everyone. Fraternities and sororities such as Lambda Alpha Upsilon Fraternity, Inc. and Omega Pi Lambda Sorority, Inc. also actively participate in the celebrations, with support from the Intercultural Greek Council. Their mission is to promote unity and support among cultural organizations so that we can all celebrate our unique backgrounds together.
As an active member of Lambda Alpha Upsilon Fraternity, Inc., I’ve seen firsthand how our mission is reflected in our work on campus. We aim to bring the Latino community together by creating spaces where students can connect with their cultural heritage, feel empowered, and build a strong support network that will help them succeed throughout their academic and professional journeys.
Ultimately, there’s no reason to stay on the sidelines during this celebration. The university —through its departments, cultural initiatives, and student organizations— is eager to involve everyone and to share the meaning and legacy of Hispanic Heritage Month. Whether you’re part of the Latino community or simply curious to learn more, this is a time for all of us to come together and honor the history, culture, and contributions that shape our diverse society.